Gear Review: Waterproof Cycling Gear for the Budget Minded Bike Commuter

Value Rating: 10 Durability Rating: 10 Overall Rating: 10 Location of Test: Portland, OR Duration of Test: Every rainy day! Best Use: Bike Commuting The Full Review: This is a review that covers my whole waterproof cycling outfit. As a full-time bike commuter in rainy Portland, OR I need quality, reliable gear that I won't worry about getting wet in or falling apart on me, while still not breaking the bank. The system I have in place is minimalist and effective overall, and it didn't cost me a lot for the amount of abuse it's withstood. Marmot Minimalist Pant: The Minimalist Pant really is minimalist and that makes it affordable. What makes it great is the soft stretch of the fabric that allows me to peddle freely. The Gore-Tex fabric breathes very well while keeping me completely dry. I've had these pants for 2 years and have only treated them with Tech Wash waterproofing once. There hasn't been any wear in between the thighs or elsewhere. Having the zip on the ankle allows me to fit around bigger boots if I choose to use them for skiing. The only edit to the garment I would like to see is another inch on the back band of the pant to increase coverage while bending forward cycling. When I don't need them, they stuff well into my pack. GORE-TEX® with Paclite® Technology 100% Seam Taped Hand Pockets with Water Resistant Zipper Elastic Waist with Snap Closure and Zip Fly Articulated Knees Ankle Zippers Main Material: GORE-TEX® Products with Paclite® Technology 100% Polyester 3.6 oz/yd Fit: Regular Fit Weight: 0lbs 9.6oz (272.2g) Sizes: XS-XL Marmot Minimalist Jacket: I have many of the same feelings about this jacket as the pants. It's stayed waterproof for 3 years and I wear it skiing, cycling, and around town. It could be longer in the back for me as I have a long torso. It stretches just like the pant and breathes well. When I pair it with the North Face Ventrix jacket it's perfect for biking around Portland in the rain. I stay ventilated so I'm not sweating and am protected from the elements. The velcro is falling apart on the pockets and could have been sewn in better. GORE-TEX® with Paclite® Technology 100% Seam Taped PitZips Attached Adjustable Hood Zippered Hand Pockets Storm Flap over Zipper with Snap/Velcro® Closure Elastic Drawcord Hem DriClime® Lined Chin Guard Angel-Wing Movement™ Fit: Regular Fit Main materials: GORE-TEX® Products with Paclite® Technology 100% Polyester 3.6 oz/yd Sizes: XS-XL Showers Pass Crosspoint Waterproof Knit Gloves: I love these gloves. My hands stay warm without getting sweaty or wet and I like the visibility for when I need to signal traffic in dark, rainy conditions. They are midweight and ideal for colder conditions. Fully waterproof Wear-resistant knit exterior that feels like a regular knit glove Waterproof-breathable Artex membrane Coolmax moisture-wicking antibacterial knit lining. Silicone print on the palm offers a better grip in wet conditions. Wilderness Technology Dragon River PVC Drypack 25L: I live out of this thing. I can stuff all my clothes, groceries, gadgets and other items that I would need to live a week away from home. That it's simple, durable and waterproof makes it perfect for a bike commuter. Not to mention it's got a great warranty and it was super cheap. Lifetime Warranty Heavy-Duty PVC material Roll top closure system 100% Waterproof 25 Liters capacity Footwear: Lastly, for my shoes, I use some Rom's I found for $40 in Next Adventure's Bargain Basement. There are always great finds down there, but you could always buy new. I love the slip-on design and durable sole. Again, simple, minimalist, and rugged. The Good Excellent stretch, breathability, multi-use, and rugged equipment that can withstand rain, wind, and dirt. The Bad: I wish women's products, in general, had more length in the torso and had better pockets. The Bottom Line: I put this equipment through abuse every day and they have been durable for over 3 years now. I love my set up and recommend it to anyone who asks.